Cardiac Emergency Unit Established at Grand Mosque in Makkah

A specialised cardiac emergency facility known as the Safe Heart Zone has been established at the Grand Mosque to enable rapid treatment for heart attack cases among worshippers and visitors.

The initiative was implemented by the Makkah Health Cluster, with operations led by King Abdullah Medical City. The project forms part of broader efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare services for pilgrims and visitors to the holy mosques, in line with the Health Sector Transformation Program under Saudi Vision 2030.

The Safe Heart Zone includes 10 cardiac intensive care beds supported by a team of 30 specialised healthcare professionals. Interventional cardiology services are provided through a mobile catheterisation laboratory at Al-Haram Hospital, enabling medical teams to perform urgent procedures close to the mosque complex.

The facility is equipped with advanced mechanical support systems for critical cardiac cases, including Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, as well as interventional cardiology equipment such as cardiac stents and specialised medications. Clinical pathways have also been established for post-catheterisation care and patient referral to ensure continuity of treatment.

Officials said the initiative is intended to reduce treatment times for heart attack patients and improve outcomes during peak periods, particularly throughout Ramadan and the Hajj season when visitor numbers increase significantly.

The centre is integrated with the wider regional healthcare network, receiving emergency cases transported by the Saudi Red Crescent Authority and referrals from healthcare facilities around the Grand Mosque and three nearby medical centres.